On May 7, 1873, a search party descended onto the
Bender’s deserted homestead with spades, shovels and plows. After the
cabin was lifted and moved aside, a search was made under the house, but
nothing was found. The search was about to be called off when Dr. William
York’s brother, Colonel Ed York, from his buggy noticed the outline of a
body's depression in the small orchard. Digging began and tragically Dr.
York’s body was found buried, head downward, feet scarcely covered. His
skull had been smashed from behind with a hammer and his throat had been
cut. Harper’s Weekly, June 7, 1873, published the above sketch made
from one of the photographs by Mr. Gamble of Parsons. Cherryvale Museum Collection